Marine Corps considers new all-weather coat

Sep. 4, 2013 - 06:00AM
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Marine Corps Systems Command is asking Marines to participate in an online survey for a black all-weather coat, or AWC. The survey, which opened Aug. 31 and will continue until Sept. 27, is available to all Marines with a common access card. (Marine Corps photo illustration)

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What do you think of the black all-weather coat? Do you like the appearance, and would you like to see the Marine Corps make the change. Send you comments to marinelet@marinecorpstimes.com. Put AWC in the subject line.

The Marine Corps is considering a uniform change that would make the service’s All-weather Coat black rather than pewter grey, according to a Marine news release.

The possible change is the result of problems with color consistency from jacket to jacket, a variation that likely occurs during production.

“We’ve had some difficulties meeting the pewter shade requirement, so we’re considering changing to a black coat,” said Lou Curcio of the Combat, Cold Weather and Dress Clothing Team within Marine Corps Systems Command’s Infantry Weapons Systems. “The change to black can allow for better shade consistency for this item and is already in the supply system, which creates cost efficiency in future acquisitions.”

Before a decision is made, however, MARCORSYSCOM is looking to Marines for their input. An online survey, which began Aug. 31 and will run through Sept. 27, allows Marines to voice their opinions on the appearance of the black versus pewter coat.

“We’d like to hear from as many Marines as possible,” Curcio said. “The survey will allow Marines to view photos of both the pewter and black all-weather coat with different uniforms. The information they provide will remain confidential, and their feedback will directly impact the decision made for this item.”

Those who already have a pewter AWC don’t have to worry just yet about trashing it and paying for a new one. Even if the transition to a black coat is approved it could be up to three years before Marines are required to wear it, according to Mary Boyt, head of the Marine Corps Uniform Board. The black coat would likely be less expensive.

The online survey, which can be accessed with a Common Access Card, takes about 10 minutes to complete, according to Marine officials, and consists of nine questions. It can be accessed at https://usmcsurveys.natick.army.mil/, and click on the AWC link.